How Much is a Taxi to Gatwick Airport?

Dennis Y

Jun 26, 2025

How Much is a Taxi to Gatwick Airport

When planning a long-distance journey to Gatwick Airport, one of the most convenient and reliable options for residents across South Ribble and surrounding areas is booking a private taxi. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, avoiding the stress of train changes, parking hassles, or dragging luggage through stations is a major advantage. But a common question many travellers ask is: how much is a taxi to Gatwick Airport from towns and villages in Lancashire?

This article provides a detailed look at taxi prices from popular areas within South Ribble, how pricing works based on group size, and why South Ribble Taxis is the preferred choice for long-distance airport transfers.

Areas Served by South Ribble Taxis

South Ribble Taxis is a trusted local service offering reliable long-distance transport to Gatwick Airport. They operate from a wide range of towns, villages, and suburbs including:

  • South Ribble
  • Leyland
  • Farington & Farington Moss
  • Midge Hall
  • Clayton-le-Woods
  • Bamber Bridge
  • Clayton Brook
  • Cuerden
  • Hoghton & Hoghton Bottoms
  • Walton-le-Dale & Higher Walton
  • Lostock Hall
  • Penwortham
  • Longton
  • Much Hoole
  • Hutton
  • New Longton
  • Little Hoole
  • Tarleton
  • Hesketh Bank
  • Preston, including Deepdale, Ribbleton, Ashton-on-Ribble, Lea, Cottam, Fulwood
  • Chorley

This expansive coverage means that wherever you live within South Ribble or nearby, a dependable Gatwick transfer is just a booking away.

Transparent Taxi Pricing from South Ribble Areas to Gatwick

Taxi pricing can sometimes be confusing, but South Ribble Taxis offer fixed and transparent rates based on both the number of passengers and the vehicle type required. Here's a full breakdown of fares to Gatwick Airport, one-way and return:

1. Leyland

  • 1 to 4 passengers (car): £350 one-way | £600 return
  • 4 to 8 passengers (minibus): £400 one-way | £750 return

2. Penwortham & Longton

  • 1 to 4 passengers (car): £350 one-way | £600 return
  • 4 to 8 passengers (minibus): £400 one-way | £750 return

3. Bamber Bridge & Lostock Hall

  • 1 to 4 passengers (car): £350 one-way | £600 return
  • 4 to 8 passengers (minibus): £400 one-way | £750 return

4. Preston (including suburbs like Fulwood, Ribbleton, etc.)

  • 1 to 4 passengers (car): £350 one-way | £600 return
  • 4 to 8 passengers (minibus): £400 one-way | £750 return

5. Tarleton

  • 1 to 4 passengers (car): £370 one-way | £620 return
  • 4 to 8 passengers (minibus): £420 one-way | £770 return

These rates reflect comfortable, door-to-door private transfers with licensed, experienced drivers. Prices are per vehicle, not per person, making it highly economical for group or family travel.

What’s Included in the Fare?

When you book a Gatwick transfer with South Ribble Taxis, you receive more than just a basic ride. Their fares cover:

  • Pick-up from your doorstep
  • Flight monitoring to ensure timely airport arrival or pick-up
  • Help with luggage
  • Comfortable vehicle suited to your group size
  • Toll roads and airport drop-off charges (included in the quoted fare)
  • Option for Meet & Greet at Gatwick on return trips

You’ll also benefit from fixed prices, meaning there are no hidden fees or surprise charges if there’s traffic or road delays.

Why Choose a Taxi Over Public Transport?

While trains and coaches do connect the North West to London and Gatwick, they come with a range of inconveniences:

1. Multiple Transfers

A typical train journey from Preston or Leyland to Gatwick involves at least 2–3 changes, including travel across London to connect to Gatwick via Southern Rail or Gatwick Express.

2. Luggage Struggles

Dragging bags across platforms and in crowded train carriages is not ideal, especially for families or elderly travellers.

3. Unpredictable Delays

Rail services are prone to cancellations, especially in winter, and navigating London can be stressful.

A taxi eliminates all of these issues by offering a private, non-stop journey directly from your home to your departure terminal.

Also Read: - Is taxi considered public transport

Booking for Groups or Larger Families

If you're travelling as a group of four or more, booking a minibus through South Ribble Taxis offers excellent value. With 6- to 8-seater options available, the cost per head reduces significantly, especially for return bookings.

  • For example:
    A minibus from Preston for 6 people = £400 one way = ~£67 per person
    Compared to train tickets which could cost £80+ per person with connections

This makes South Ribble Taxis one of the most affordable and stress-free group travel options.

Travel Time and Route Information

On average, a taxi journey from the South Ribble area to Gatwick Airport takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on your exact location and the time of day. Your driver will choose the most efficient route, typically involving the M6, M40 or M1, and M25 motorways.

South Ribble Taxis also take real-time traffic updates into account when planning pick-up times to ensure that you reach the airport in good time — usually recommended to be at least 2.5 hours before international flights.

Early Morning and Late Night Transfers

Gatwick flights often depart in the early hours or arrive late at night. South Ribble Taxis operates 24/7, so whether your flight is at 4 AM or you land at midnight, you can rely on their prompt and courteous service.

Unlike public transport, which may not be available during unsociable hours, your taxi will be waiting right when and where you need it.

Business and Executive Travel

For professionals and business travellers, image and timing are everything. South Ribble Taxis offers executive vehicles on request — ideal for corporate airport transfers. These cars feature leather interiors, Wi-Fi, and a smooth ride, ensuring that you arrive in style and ready for the journey ahead.

Companies can even set up a business account for streamlined billing and priority bookings.

Return Journeys Made Easy

When you return from Gatwick Airport, especially after a long international flight, the last thing you want is to search for a taxi or navigate a train network. Booking a return journey in advance with South Ribble Taxis means a driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall.

With clear signage and friendly service, you’ll be taken straight home without delays or queues — a much-needed comfort after a tiring journey.

How to Book a Taxi to Gatwick Airport

Booking your journey is simple and can be done via:

  • Phone Call – Speak to a local operator directly
  • Website Booking – Use the online form for instant quotes
  • Email – Ideal for return bookings or group quotes
  • Mobile App – Coming soon for even faster reservations

Advance booking is always recommended, particularly during busy travel periods like summer holidays, Christmas, or bank holidays.

Tips to Save on Your Gatwick Taxi Fare

While South Ribble Taxis already offers some of the most competitive airport rates in Lancashire, here are a few tips to make your journey even more cost-effective:

  • Book Return Trips Together – Save up to £100+ on round trips
  • Travel in Groups – Share the cost of a larger vehicle
  • Avoid Peak Congestion Times – Early morning pick-ups mean less traffic
  • Regular Flyer? – Ask about loyalty rates or business accounts
  • Compare Car vs Minibus – For families, minibuses often offer better value

Final Thoughts

If you're wondering how much is a taxi to Gatwick Airport from areas like Leyland, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge, or Preston, the answer is straightforward when you book with South Ribble Taxis. Their fixed, transparent fares and professional service make them the leading choice for long-distance airport travel.

With comfortable vehicles, 24/7 availability, and a wide service area covering all of South Ribble and parts of Preston and Chorley, they offer a door-to-door experience that public transport simply can't match.

Whether you're a solo traveller, a family heading off on holiday, or a business professional, South Ribble Taxis ensures your journey to Gatwick Airport starts and ends in complete comfort. Book your airport taxi today and enjoy a seamless, stress-free trip from home to terminal.